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Infection Prevention & Control

Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) is very important at HDGH.  The mission of the Infection Prevention and Control Program is to provide quality care for our patients while identifying and reducing the risk of infection.  The Infection Prevention and Control team is comprised of qualified Infection Control professionals led by a Certified Infection Control Practitioner.  The program co-ordinates all activities related to the prevention and control of infections.  Some of the methods by which this is accomplished include the following:

  • Infection surveillance
  • Education
  • Policies and procedures
  • Consultation
  • Research

    • We believe it is the responsibility of each and every individual at the hospital to practice good infection control, the basis of which continues to be good aseptic technique and HANDWASHING!

    “In health care settings, hand hygiene is the single most important way to prevent infections!”

    What can you do as a patient?

  • Wash your own hands often and well
  • Practice good hygiene
  • Remind your caregivers to wash their hands (sometimes we forget and we welcome you reminding us)

    • What can visitors/ family members do?

  • Do NOT visit if you are ill
  • Wash your hands on entrance to and exit from the hospital
  • Wash your hands before and after any patient contact
  • Follow nursing instructions (especially if you are providing direct care)
  • Do NOT go into unit kitchens (these are for staff only)

    • What if you are visiting someone on additional precautions?

  • Check with the nursing station before visiting
  • Follow posted instruction signs
  • If you are visiting others in the hospital be sure to visit the patient on additional precautions LAST!
  • Wash your hands after removal of any protective equipment (this includes gloves, gowns and/or masks)
  • Do NOT exit the room wearing ANY protective equipment 
  • MANDATORY HANDWASHING upon exit of the room

    • We have many patient/visitor information pamphlets available.  They include guidelines for:

  • “HANDWASHING and Infection Control”
  • “Visitor guidelines for patients on precautions”
  • “MRSA”
  • “VRE”
  • “C diff”
  • “TB”

    • If you would like one please feel free to ask nursing staff for a copy.